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Top 15 Things to Do With Kids in Perth That’ll Wear Them Out (In a Good Way!)

| Last Updated: December 2024

Now things were going smoothly until my youngest tried to befriend a “magic squirrel” in the park. One attempt to pet it, and we were suddenly in a cartoonish chase scene, with me trying to keep the kids from terrorising the local wildlife.

After that unexpected bout of chaos (and lots of laughter), I realised Perth had so much more to offer than just mischievous squirrels. So, for all the brave souls planning a family adventure there, here’s the ultimate list of the best things to do with kids in Perth!

Explore history at the majestic Scone Palace

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Website: https://scone-palace.co.uk/ 

Address: Scone Palace

Contact details: +44 173 855 2300

Operating hours: 

  • Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £19.50 (Palace and Gardens), £13 (Gardens only)
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £39 (Palace and Gardens), £25 (Gardens only)
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £58.50 (Palace and Gardens), £38 (Gardens only)
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £65 (Palace and Gardens), £42 (Gardens only)
  • Child (ages 4 to 15) – £13 (Palace and Gardens), £8 (Gardens only)
  • Concession (ages over 65) – £18.50 (Palace and Gardens), £12 (Gardens only)
  • Carer (proof of eligibility required) – Free

Kids will love wandering around Scone Palace, where Scottish kings were crowned, and trust me, there’s plenty to keep them engaged. Inside, the palace is decked out with amazing antiques and stunning artworks.

Once you’re done soaking indoors, head outside, where the vast grounds are perfect for a family picnic, and there’s even a maze to get lost in (literally). Don’t miss the peacocks strutting around; they add a dash of colour and fun to the whole experience.

But wait, there’s more—there’s a fantastic playground that’ll surely burn off any leftover energy your kids might have. Whether they’re climbing, sliding, or swinging, they’ll be entertained for hours.

Pro tip: 
If you visit during one of the special events or themed days, the whole place comes alive with mediaeval jousting shows, falconry displays, and more.
Make sure to get there early to beat the crowds and pack a picnic to save on lunch. The grounds are fantastic for a family spread, and you might even get a visit from a curious peacock!

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Website: https://www.culturepk.org.uk/museum/perth-art-gallery/ 

Address: 78 George St.

Contact details: +44 173 878 3400

Operating hours: 

  • Monday, Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday – 12 PM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: Free entry but donations are welcome

Perth Art Gallery is a real treasure trove where art meets interactive fun. The gallery houses a brilliant collection ranging from classic paintings to contemporary masterpieces.

Even better, they have special exhibits with hands-on activities that keep the kids entertained. The gallery is well laid out, making it super easy to navigate through with kids in tow.

There are often guided tours that explain the art in a way that’s engaging for both grown-ups and young ones alike. One highlight you’ll enjoy here is the sculpture garden outside—a perfect spot for the kids to stretch their legs and run around.

Pro tip: 
Don’t miss out on the little corner cafe if you need a break, and the gift shop for some unique and affordable art-themed trinkets.
Remember to check their schedule for special family-friendly events and art workshops—they’re a great way to keep the kids entertained and maybe spark a new artistic interest!

Unveil secrets at ancient Huntingtower Castle

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/huntingtower-castle/ 

Address: Huntingtower

Contact details: +44 173 862 7231

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 12:30 PM, 1 PM to 3 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £7.50
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £6
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £4.50
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £15
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £21.50
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £25.50

Huntingtower Castle is like something out of a fairy tale with its towers and old stone walls. Kids can let their imaginations run wild here as they explore the rooms, dungeons, and hidden staircases.

There are plenty of stories to discover in Huntingtower’s history, including that of the two noble families who once lived here. It’s a wonderful way to get the kids involved in history without it feeling like a history lesson.

Don’t forget to climb the tower for some beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area; it’s totally worth the ascent. And while the castle grounds are relatively small, they’re perfect for playing knights and princesses or just for running around freely.

Pro tip: 
Make sure you guys wear comfy shoes since the castle grounds can be a bit uneven, and bring a light jacket—those old stone walls can get pretty chilly, even in summer!

Dive into culture at the vibrant Perth Museum

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Website: https://perthmuseum.co.uk/ 

Address: St. John’s Place

Contact details: +44 173 863 2488

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM

Cost: Free entry but requires a timed ticket

Perth Museum is ideal for a rainy day when you need to keep the kids busy and learning without them realising it. The exhibits are diverse, covering everything from natural history to local culture, and the interactive displays are a real hit, too.

The museum is super family-friendly, offering plenty of interactive exhibits for kids to touch and explore. The ever-changing exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, making it a perfect spot for repeat visits. 

Plus, don’t miss the family-friendly workshops and events that inspire creativity and learning in young minds.

Pro tip: 
Don’t miss the gift shop on your way out; it has some neat educational toys and books that make for great souvenirs or presents.
Try visiting on weekdays if possible to avoid the weekend crowds and check their website for any special exhibitions or family workshops.

Let kids burn off energy at South Inch Park

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Website: https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/15316/The-South-Inch-Perth 

Address: South Inch Park

Contact details: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: Free entry

South Inch Park is like an energy oasis for kids and a lifesaver for parents. It’s a vast, green space where they can run, jump, and play to their heart’s content.

The park boasts an awesome playground with everything from swings to slides, and there’s plenty of open space for some football or frisbee. Besides the playground, there are lovely walking paths that circle the park, perfect for a family stroll or a bike ride.

And let’s not forget our four-legged family members—the park is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring them along for the fun. For those interested in a bit more than just physical activities, there’s often local events and fairs happening at South Inch Park.

Pro tip: 
Opt to pack a picnic and a blanket. The park is perfect for a family picnic, and having food on hand means you can stretch out your visit without worrying about hungry tummies.

Putt around at Noah’s Ark Golf Centre

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Website: http://www.noahsarkgolf.com/ 

Address: Newhouse Farm

Contact details: +44 173 844 0678

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £6.50
  • Child (ages 14 and under) – £5
  • Ages under 5 – £4
  • Adult groups (10 or more players) – £5.50
  • Child groups (10 or more players) – £4.50

Noah’s Ark Golf Centre got this fantastic adventure golf course that’s themed all around Noah’s Ark, complete with animal statues and whimsical obstacles. The 18-hole mini-golf course is the main draw for families, and believe me, it’s a blast for all ages.

The kids will love navigating through the obstacles, and you might find yourself getting just as competitive. There’s also a driving range if you feel like smashing a few balls, and they do provide equipment, so you don’t need to stress about that.

Don’t miss out on the café either, where you can kick back with some snacks while the kids recount their best shots. There’s even a cool golf shop on-site, stocked with everything from clubs to apparel, in case anyone wants to take the sport more seriously.

Pro tip: 
To avoid waiting times and maximise your fun, try visiting during the weekdays or early in the mornings on weekends. It’s less crowded, and you get more time to perfect your shots without feeling rushed.

Climb, swing, and slide at Active Kids Adventure Park

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Website: https://www.activekidsadventurepark.co.uk/ 

Address: Burnside Farm, Stanley

Contact details: +44 173 882 7286

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost:

  • Ages under 2 – Free 
  • Outdoor Winter Off Peak – £5 (Child ages 2 to 12), £2.50 (Adult)
  • Outdoor March to October – £10 (Child ages 2 to 12), £5 (Adult)
  • Indoor Weekday/Off Peak – £5.95 (Child ages 2 to 12), £3 (Adult)
  • Indoor Weekend/Holidays – £6.95 (Child ages 2 to 12), £3.50 (Adult)

Active Kids Adventure Park is packed with an array of outdoor activities that will have your kids climbing, swinging, sliding, and have the time of their lives. From go-karting to giant jumping pillows, the park is designed to delight children of all ages.

There’s even a dedicated toddler area, so the little ones don’t feel left out while the older kids get their thrills. There’s a small animal section where kids can get up close with some furry friends and feed them, so be sure to grab some animal feed at the entrance.

The park also periodically sets up different events and themed activities throughout the year. For parents, they’ve got plenty of seating areas scattered around so you can catch a break while keeping an eye on your kids.

Pro tip: 
The on-site café has a decent selection of meals and snacks, including some healthy options if you’re trying to steer clear of typical fast food.

Stroll through the serene Branklyn Garden

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Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/BranklynGarden 

Address: 116 Dundee Rd.

Contact details: +44 173 862 5535

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM (Feb. 12 to Feb 16, 2025)
  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Mar. 31 to Oct. 31, 2025)

Cost: 

  • Adult – £8.50
  • Concession – £7
  • Family – £24
  • One adult family – £16
  • Child – £5
  • Young Scot – £1

Branklyn Garden is ideal if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience with the kids. Nestled on the outskirts of Perth, this two-acre garden offers a peaceful oasis with a dazzling variety of plants, flowers, and trees.

But even if plants aren’t your thing, the vibrant colours and beautiful setups are enough to captivate anyone. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll where kids can discover new types of flowers and trees while also burning off some energy.

While walking through the garden, you can introduce kids to the concept of biodiversity by pointing out rare and unusual species. In spring and early summer, the garden is at its peak bloom and offers a captivating and sensory-rich experience for kids.

Pro tip: 
If you need a little break, the small tea room offers delicious cakes and drinks that can be a real treat for everyone after a pleasant walk.

Learn military history at Black Watch Castle and Museum

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Website: https://www.theblackwatch.co.uk/ 

Address: Balhousie Castle, Hay St.

Contact details: +44 173 863 8152

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

  • Day Ticket – £5 to £28.25
  • Quiet Time Museum Session – £5
  • Guided Tour – £7.50 to £52.25
  • Private Black Watch Story Tour – £115

Black Watch Castle and Museum offers a unique and educational experience that’s both engaging and fun for children. As you step through the gates, you’ll be kind of transported through history with fascinating exhibits.

It’s a captivating dive into military history that details the lives of soldiers through an impressive array of artefacts, uniforms, and interactive displays. Kids will love the hands-on elements, including the ability to try on replica gear and uniforms.

Guided tours are definitely worth it, as they provide in-depth stories and insights that make the exhibits come to life. Plus, the temporary exhibits often highlight different aspects of military life, so there’s always something new to learn.

Pro tip: 
Remember to look out for special events and workshops; they do kid-friendly activities tied to the exhibitions that can be both educational and loads of fun.
If you’re planning a visit, check their schedule beforehand for any special family tours or activities for a more interactive and memorable experience.

Enjoy a family show at Perth Concert Hall

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Website: http://www.horsecross.co.uk/ 

Address: Mill St.

Contact details: +44 173 862 1031

Operating hours: 

  • Operating hours vary based on the event schedule

Cost: £££

Perth Concert Hall is a fantastic venue that hosts a wide array of performances, many of which are perfect for families. Whether it’s a children’s theatre production, a musical, or a live concert, there’s often something on the schedule that can entertain kids.

The shows are designed to be engaging, whether through energetic performances, catchy tunes, or colourful sets. They frequently offer family discounts and sometimes even provide interactive pre-show activities that can get the kids excited and involved.

The seating is comfortable, and the sightlines are good, so there’s really no bad seat in the house. Grabbing a bite before or after the show is easy too, thanks to the variety of eateries nearby.

Pro tip: 
Keep an eye out for the special family-friendly shows, particularly during school holidays when they might add additional performances to accommodate everyone.
Remember to book your tickets online in advance to secure the best seats and to take advantage of any early bird discounts.

Go ice skating at the Dewars Centre

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Website: https://www.liveactive.co.uk/Venues/dewars-centre 

Address: Glover St.

Contact details: +44 173 845 4700

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM

Cost: 

Ice Skating:

  • Adult – £6.95
  • Junior – £5.55
  • Senior – £6.15
  • Concession – £3.65

Ice Skating Lesson:

  • Ages 2 to 5 – £4.20 per session
  • Ages 5 and above – £11 per session

Dewars Centre has this fantastic ice rink that’s perfect for skating, whether your little ones are total newbies or they’ve got some experience. You can rent skates there, so no need to worry if you don’t own a pair.

Plus, they sometimes have special themed skate sessions that are super fun and lively. Beyond its popular ice skating rink, the centre is renowned for its exceptional curling facilities, providing adults with a chance to learn and enjoy this unique sport. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the curling sessions offer a fun and engaging experience. If you need a break or just want to nibble on something, the little cafe right there serves up some surprisingly good snacks.

Pro tip: 
Make sure that you check the Dewars Centre website or call ahead to see if there are any discount packages for families or multiple activities. Sometimes they have bundle deals that can save you some cash.

Have a blast at Wonder World Soft Play Perth

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Website: https://www.wonderworldsoftplay.co.uk/uk/perth/ 

Address: Old Gallows Rd.

Contact details: +44 173 844 5568

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM

Cost: 

  • 0 to 6 months – £1 (Off-peak), £2 (Peak)
  • 7 to 12 months – £3.50 (Off-peak), £4.50 (Peak)
  • Ages under 3 (13 to 35 months) – £7.95 (Off-peak), £9.50 (Peak)
  • Ages 3 and above – £9.50 (Off-peak), £11.50 (Peak)
  • Spectators – Free

*maximum of 2 spectators per booking

Wonder World Soft Play is basically a giant playground designed to burn off all that crazy kid energy in the most fun way possible. They have these huge climbing frames, slides, ball pits, go-karts (yep!) and all sorts of interactive features.

The whole place is designed to be super safe, so even the littlest ones can explore without you having to worry. One of the coolest things about this soft play is that they have different zones for different age groups.

There’s a toddle zone that’s all about the little ones, with softer play equipment and age-appropriate toys. Meanwhile, the older kids have their more adventurous play areas with bigger slides and more challenging climbing frames.

Pro tip: 
Wonder World, do these awesome themed parties if you’ve got a birthday coming up. It’s super easy because they handle pretty much everything—you just show up and enjoy.

Wander the beautiful paths of Rodney Gardens

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Website: https://jmaps.net/rodney-gardens 

Address: South St.

Contact details: +44 173 845 4630

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: Free entry

Rodney Gardens is one of those places where you can just let the kids run free and explore nature. It’s perfect for little adventures because the paths are safe and mostly flat, making it super stroller-friendly too.

The gardens are lush and beautifully maintained, with loads of different plants and flowers. As you wander through, you’ll come across interesting statues and features here and there, which can be great conversation starters with the kids.

What’s more, they have little ponds where you can feed the ducks. If you’re bringing bikes or scooters, the paths are smooth enough for the kids to ride around safely, giving them that extra bit of fun while you stroll.

Pro tip: 
There’s a playground not too far off, and the River Tay runs nearby. You can make a whole day out of it—start with a walk around the gardens, then head over to the riverside for some more exploring or simply to chill and watch the boats.

Have a nice walk at Quarrymill Woodland Park

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Website: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/quarrymill-woodland-park/ 

Address: Quarrymill Woodland Park

Contact details: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: Free entry

Quarrymill Woodland Park has a variety of walking trails that are well-maintained and easy enough for even the littlest legs, making it super family-friendly. One of the coolest things about Quarrymill is its secretive fairy trail—a total hit with the kiddos.

You’ll find little fairy houses tucked away in trees and bushes, turning a simple walk into an enchanting treasure hunt. What’s more, Quarrymill is teeming with all sorts of critters that will keep your kids intrigued and entertained.

Even better, you can pack a picnic since there are plenty of picnic tables around the park where you can take a break. Additionally, the park is home to a series of old mills that used to operate along the stream, all of which you can check out along the way.

Pro tip: 
Don’t forget to bring some nuts and seeds with you—the squirrels here are quite friendly and love a little snack from visitors.

Dive into local history at The Fair Maid’s House

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Website: https://www.rsgs.org/visitor-centre 

Address: 15-19 North Port

Contact details: +44 173 845 5050

Operating hours: 

  • Thursday to Saturday – 12:30 PM to 4 PM

Cost: Entry by donation

The Fair Maid’s House is a gem for anyone looking to dive into a bit of Perth’s rich history with their kids. It’s the oldest secular building in the city and has been transformed into a fascinating visitor centre.

Full of interesting displays that are both informative and interactive, this place makes history come alive in a way that’s engaging for children. They’ve got touchscreens, artefacts, and even costume areas where kids can dress up in historical gear.

There’s also a room that focuses on the history of navigation and maps, which is full of cool instruments and globes that kids find fascinating. Once you’re done with that, you can head out to the small courtyard garden and let the kids run around a bit.

Pro tip: 
Remember to check their website for any special events or family activities. They often run workshops or themed days that can make your visit even more exciting and educational for the kids.

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